Yes, it’s a DiCaprio-fueled news week. With the premiere of his new documentary on climate change — The 11th Hour — at Cannes, we’re receiving plenty of information on what was said, how the film was received, and the attacks that are brewing. From the beginning, DiCaprio was prepared to fight for his film’s message and defend others promoting a similar view. First up, Al Gore. From the article,

“DiCaprio said: ‘We’re all trying the best we can, truly, we really are.

Attacks on Al Gore for example I think are misdirected. Don’t shoot the messenger, you know what I’m saying? If you’re going to attack somebody on the way they conduct their life, let’s talk about the big picture, let’s see what big oil companies are doing.

This person is truly trying to relay a message to the public and the way he travels and the way he leads his life should not be splayed out like that. In the long term it’s about instilling [environmentally friendly principles] into governments and corporations so these things are part of our everyday lives.'”

Well played, sir! Next, Leo responded to the hits on his own “green” lifestyle. When asked if he took a fuel-guzzling plane to Cannes, he quipped, “No, I took a train across the Atlantic.” Turning serious, he mentioned that he drives a hybrid, has solar panels installed on his home, and “flies commercially whenever possible.” For Cannes, he took a commercial jet from NYC. They even lost his luggage.

Another great tidbit came from the Canadian Newspaper, The Gazette, which revealed where Leo’s passion for fighting climate change comes from.

“Indeed, the actor said, the route to becoming both actor and activist began with Gore.

‘About 10 years ago, he sat me down as vice-president of the United States and talked to me about the issue of global warming. I didn’t understand very much about it. And from then on, I’ve been kind of much more active in it.'”

No wonder these two are so tight. We’ll have plenty more coverage coming up — so get ready for more 11th Hour goodness. Till then, have a look at what others are saying about Leo’s green Cannes showing.

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About Michael dEstries

Michael has been blogging since 2005 on issues such as sustainability, renewable energy, philanthropy, and healthy living. He regularly contributes to a slew of publications, as well as consulting with companies looking to make an impact using the web and social media. He lives in Ithaca, NY with his family on an apple farm.

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